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The Widow and the Wanted: An MMF Historical Western Why Choose Romance
Indian Territory, 1870.
A whiteout. A raid. A widow left for dead.
She should have vanished beneath the snow.
Instead, two outlaws find her.
They already belong to each other, bound by loyalty and a love they say is written in the stars. They don’t take in strangers, and winter on the post–Civil War frontier is hard enough to survive without making room for a third.
But this storm feels less like chance than fate.
Snowbound, hunted, and trapped together, survival becomes something far more dangerous than the cold.
A dark western MMF why-choose romance featuring an established couple, snowbound forced proximity, outlaw protectors, and a storm that feels like fate on the post–Civil War frontier.
Fated Outlaws is a series of standalone, dark, steamy historical western romances by Halle Oak, set on the late-1800s American frontier and inspired by constellations. The series features morally gray wounded antiheroes, high emotional tension, and high-heat romance.
Preorder now.
A whiteout. A raid. A widow left for dead.
She should have vanished beneath the snow.
Instead, two outlaws find her.
They already belong to each other, bound by loyalty and a love they say is written in the stars. They don’t take in strangers, and winter on the post–Civil War frontier is hard enough to survive without making room for a third.
But this storm feels less like chance than fate.
Snowbound, hunted, and trapped together, survival becomes something far more dangerous than the cold.
A dark western MMF why-choose romance featuring an established couple, snowbound forced proximity, outlaw protectors, and a storm that feels like fate on the post–Civil War frontier.
Fated Outlaws is a series of standalone, dark, steamy historical western romances by Halle Oak, set on the late-1800s American frontier and inspired by constellations. The series features morally gray wounded antiheroes, high emotional tension, and high-heat romance.
Preorder now.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 25, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
August 13, 2026
Thank you to Halle Oak and Love Notes PR for this eARC in exchange for my honest opinions!!
I was so intrigued by this book not only because of the romantic pairings but the setting and time period! What a unique and completely fascinating story!
Okee and Boone are former soldiers turned guns for hire who are looking for a job that will pay enough for them to survive through the winter. Okee and Boone are partners, in more than the business sense, and that is something they must keep hidden. They have such contrasting personalities too. Boone is the quintessential golden boy, so loving but so fiercely protective. Okee is steady, calm and dealing with his own serious daddy issues. He is also half Native American and despite fighting during the war, he is not treated well at all, especially by his awful father. The two secure a job “clearing land” and they meet Lula under the absolute worst circumstances and in order to survive, the three must work together.
The multiple points of view really worked for me because they were all so unique and compelling! Lula was so smart and so resilient and so determined to make it on her own. She fit in so well with their established relationship without taking away from it. I also enjoyed how accepting her mother was of her and how she decided to live her life. Boone was really a bright spot for me in this book, he was so pure and devoted to both Okee and Lula.
This is not a light hearted read! Please read the content warnings. I really enjoyed this book, the setting and time period really worked for me!
I was so intrigued by this book not only because of the romantic pairings but the setting and time period! What a unique and completely fascinating story!
Okee and Boone are former soldiers turned guns for hire who are looking for a job that will pay enough for them to survive through the winter. Okee and Boone are partners, in more than the business sense, and that is something they must keep hidden. They have such contrasting personalities too. Boone is the quintessential golden boy, so loving but so fiercely protective. Okee is steady, calm and dealing with his own serious daddy issues. He is also half Native American and despite fighting during the war, he is not treated well at all, especially by his awful father. The two secure a job “clearing land” and they meet Lula under the absolute worst circumstances and in order to survive, the three must work together.
The multiple points of view really worked for me because they were all so unique and compelling! Lula was so smart and so resilient and so determined to make it on her own. She fit in so well with their established relationship without taking away from it. I also enjoyed how accepting her mother was of her and how she decided to live her life. Boone was really a bright spot for me in this book, he was so pure and devoted to both Okee and Lula.
This is not a light hearted read! Please read the content warnings. I really enjoyed this book, the setting and time period really worked for me!
August 24, 2026
I haven't been addicted to a book like this in a long time, and this one hooked me from the first chapter! Halle Oak strikes a balance between lyrical prose and descriptions with an easy flow to the story that sucks you in.
Each character was unique and flushed out, their motivations clear, but also unattainable in the wild, gruff world around them. While this story was set in the historic western front of the 1800s, many of the themes are still present in today's world, and the predicaments Lula, Boone, and Okee found themselves in tugged on my heartstrings. In short, white men in power will always disappoint and destroy the earth they live on. *big sigh
The Widow and the Wanted covered tough topics, but our main characters still found moments of joy together, and were cracking jokes that had me laughing out loud while reading (just ask my husband lol). Every move was clever and the overall story kept me engaged and felt plausible. I cannot say enough good things about this book!
If you're looking for:
⭐Dark Historical Western Romance
⭐Forced Proximity: snowed-in, only one cabin
⭐Survival Romance
⭐MMF Romance: established couple + newcomer
⭐Widow Finding Desire Again
⭐Grumpy x Sunshine Dynamic
⭐Found Family
⭐Morally Gray Heroes
Then, you'll want to jump right into this story (and series)!
Each character was unique and flushed out, their motivations clear, but also unattainable in the wild, gruff world around them. While this story was set in the historic western front of the 1800s, many of the themes are still present in today's world, and the predicaments Lula, Boone, and Okee found themselves in tugged on my heartstrings. In short, white men in power will always disappoint and destroy the earth they live on. *big sigh
The Widow and the Wanted covered tough topics, but our main characters still found moments of joy together, and were cracking jokes that had me laughing out loud while reading (just ask my husband lol). Every move was clever and the overall story kept me engaged and felt plausible. I cannot say enough good things about this book!
If you're looking for:
⭐Dark Historical Western Romance
⭐Forced Proximity: snowed-in, only one cabin
⭐Survival Romance
⭐MMF Romance: established couple + newcomer
⭐Widow Finding Desire Again
⭐Grumpy x Sunshine Dynamic
⭐Found Family
⭐Morally Gray Heroes
Then, you'll want to jump right into this story (and series)!
August 25, 2026
"I'd beg to be run through so deep King Arthur himself couldn't draw Okee out of me with both hands."
I am utterly and completely in love with this book. I don't usually read historical fiction, but the premise of this one just caught my attention, and from the very beginning, I was hooked. The execution is immaculate, and (from what I can tell with my limited knowledge of American history), it's pretty solidly historically accurate.
The characters had me literally giggling and kicking my legs, I just loved their dynamics, and the way their relationships were portrayed. Lula, Boone, and Okee have such a complex relationship between the three of them, and I admired the way the author kept it period-accurate and realistic.
I usually pride myself on being able to predict plot twists, but this book caught me off guard several times. The plot itself was much more elaborate than I'd expected, it's so much more than just a romance.
Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the eARC of this book.
I am utterly and completely in love with this book. I don't usually read historical fiction, but the premise of this one just caught my attention, and from the very beginning, I was hooked. The execution is immaculate, and (from what I can tell with my limited knowledge of American history), it's pretty solidly historically accurate.
The characters had me literally giggling and kicking my legs, I just loved their dynamics, and the way their relationships were portrayed. Lula, Boone, and Okee have such a complex relationship between the three of them, and I admired the way the author kept it period-accurate and realistic.
I usually pride myself on being able to predict plot twists, but this book caught me off guard several times. The plot itself was much more elaborate than I'd expected, it's so much more than just a romance.
Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the eARC of this book.
August 26, 2026
Wow. It’s just so beautifully done. Poetry. Wisdom. Heart. Intense romance.
There’s so much here, and it’s all incredible. The people you meet, their pitch perfect voices, a plot that’s both simple and layered, and a historical setting that feels vivid and real.*
Gah I make it sound boring. Just read it, please? It’s easily in my top 5 of the year, along with Liv Zander’s Crown Me Dead.
*Especially fascinating to me because it’s set about 10 years before my great grandpa came west to Arizona from NY State. He wrote his own book, entitled Log of an Arizona Trailblazer. There’s nothing in common between the 2 stories other than the time range. John “Rock” was a die-hard yankee too young to have seen war. Ten years after finding a stake and selling it to buy cattle, he married his childhood sweetheart in NY and brought her to their 2-room adobe ranch house. So, yeah, a very different story.
There’s so much here, and it’s all incredible. The people you meet, their pitch perfect voices, a plot that’s both simple and layered, and a historical setting that feels vivid and real.*
Gah I make it sound boring. Just read it, please? It’s easily in my top 5 of the year, along with Liv Zander’s Crown Me Dead.
*Especially fascinating to me because it’s set about 10 years before my great grandpa came west to Arizona from NY State. He wrote his own book, entitled Log of an Arizona Trailblazer. There’s nothing in common between the 2 stories other than the time range. John “Rock” was a die-hard yankee too young to have seen war. Ten years after finding a stake and selling it to buy cattle, he married his childhood sweetheart in NY and brought her to their 2-room adobe ranch house. So, yeah, a very different story.
September 3, 2026
Thank you, Luna Literary, for the arc! 4.5 star rounded up!
I really enjoyed this one! Halle Oak has such a way with words. A few of my favourite quotes:
"He's a man who'll fill silence like it's a dry well and he's got buckets to spare."
"Boone, by contrast, is every farm boy I ever knew in West Virginia - men who were never still unless sleeping or dead. He does not know what to do with a quiet moment. When he paces,it is because his body demands use."
The characters stayed true to themselves for the entire book, as they navigated the challenges the novel offered them, negotiating together. They established such a healthy relationship.
Tropes:
-Dark Historical Western Romance
-Forced Proximity: snowed-in, only one cabin
-Survival Romance
-MMF Romance: established couple + newcomer
-Widow Finding Desire Again
-Grumpy x Sunshine Dynamic
-Found Family
-Morally Gray Heroes
I really enjoyed this one! Halle Oak has such a way with words. A few of my favourite quotes:
"He's a man who'll fill silence like it's a dry well and he's got buckets to spare."
"Boone, by contrast, is every farm boy I ever knew in West Virginia - men who were never still unless sleeping or dead. He does not know what to do with a quiet moment. When he paces,it is because his body demands use."
The characters stayed true to themselves for the entire book, as they navigated the challenges the novel offered them, negotiating together. They established such a healthy relationship.
Tropes:
-Dark Historical Western Romance
-Forced Proximity: snowed-in, only one cabin
-Survival Romance
-MMF Romance: established couple + newcomer
-Widow Finding Desire Again
-Grumpy x Sunshine Dynamic
-Found Family
-Morally Gray Heroes
August 25, 2026
The Widow and the Wanted
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Okay… this was FUN!! I read Halle’s first book, The Bear and the Lamb, and absolutely loved it, so naturally I had to pick up her second book. And she did not disappoint!
Halle does such a great job with her historical writing. I loved how she incorporated real historical facts, situations, and nuances from the time period without making the story feel like a history lesson.
And can we talk about the western dialogue?! 😂 Boone, one of our MMCs, is an absolute HOOT! He says some of the funniest things, and I was giggling like a little schoolgirl. And our girl Lula? What a spitfire! I absolutely loved her and her beautiful character.
This is an MMF romance, and I was really curious to see how Halle would make the relationship work while still keeping it historically accurate. I think she absolutely hit the nail on the head!
There’s a little bit of everything in this one—mystery, thriller, suspense, astrology, and even some botany woven into the story. It made for such a fun and unique read!
And the spice was perfect. 🔥 It was romantic, hot, and lusty, but never felt awkward or forced. You could truly feel the emotions between the characters in every chapter and see how naturally they made room for one another in their hearts.
The book has three POVs, perfectly paced chapters, and I felt like every scene had a purpose. Nothing felt unnecessary or dragged out.
I’ll definitely be continuing this series!
⚠️ Please check the trigger warnings before reading. This book deals with some historical facts and subjects that may be difficult or triggering for some readers. Your mental health matters. ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Okay… this was FUN!! I read Halle’s first book, The Bear and the Lamb, and absolutely loved it, so naturally I had to pick up her second book. And she did not disappoint!
Halle does such a great job with her historical writing. I loved how she incorporated real historical facts, situations, and nuances from the time period without making the story feel like a history lesson.
And can we talk about the western dialogue?! 😂 Boone, one of our MMCs, is an absolute HOOT! He says some of the funniest things, and I was giggling like a little schoolgirl. And our girl Lula? What a spitfire! I absolutely loved her and her beautiful character.
This is an MMF romance, and I was really curious to see how Halle would make the relationship work while still keeping it historically accurate. I think she absolutely hit the nail on the head!
There’s a little bit of everything in this one—mystery, thriller, suspense, astrology, and even some botany woven into the story. It made for such a fun and unique read!
And the spice was perfect. 🔥 It was romantic, hot, and lusty, but never felt awkward or forced. You could truly feel the emotions between the characters in every chapter and see how naturally they made room for one another in their hearts.
The book has three POVs, perfectly paced chapters, and I felt like every scene had a purpose. Nothing felt unnecessary or dragged out.
I’ll definitely be continuing this series!
⚠️ Please check the trigger warnings before reading. This book deals with some historical facts and subjects that may be difficult or triggering for some readers. Your mental health matters. ❤️
August 25, 2026
4.5⭐️
📖Format: Kindle (ARC)
Have you ever wanted 2 boyfriends who are also boyfriends?
The Widow and the Wanted is a historical romance that takes place in 1870 following Lula, an herbalist on a scientific expedition, who ends up snowed in over the winter with outlaws, Boone and Okee. Boone and Okee have an established M/M relationship and Lula is the wild card they never expected.
Reading this story felt like watching a western movie. The writing is so descriptive that it makes it so easy to visualize the story unfolding. There is a solid plot outside of the romance that keeps the audience on their toes with what will happen next.
Favorite quote:
“Dumb son of a bitch couldn’t pour piss out a boot if the instructions were nailed to the heel,”
Thank you to Halle Oak & Love Notes PR for the ARC!
📖Format: Kindle (ARC)
Have you ever wanted 2 boyfriends who are also boyfriends?
The Widow and the Wanted is a historical romance that takes place in 1870 following Lula, an herbalist on a scientific expedition, who ends up snowed in over the winter with outlaws, Boone and Okee. Boone and Okee have an established M/M relationship and Lula is the wild card they never expected.
Reading this story felt like watching a western movie. The writing is so descriptive that it makes it so easy to visualize the story unfolding. There is a solid plot outside of the romance that keeps the audience on their toes with what will happen next.
Favorite quote:
“Dumb son of a bitch couldn’t pour piss out a boot if the instructions were nailed to the heel,”
Thank you to Halle Oak & Love Notes PR for the ARC!
September 25, 2026
~4.75 rounded up~
I really enjoyed Halle Oak’s debut, The Bear and the Lamb, so I was excited to dive into The Widow and the Wanted. This book is even better than the first! As someone who loves Red Dead Redemption, the gays, and a couple of darn tootin' spicy group sex scenes, this book hit the nail on the head for me.
I love the "fated in the stars" lore and the obvious historical research Halle puts into her writing. Every character feels so real and emotionally driven. Boone and Okee have such a sweet, intimate love story with a bond that feels written in the stars from long ago. Then there's Lula, who is an absolute firecracker. She was giving herbalist Bonnie MacFarlane vibes, taking no crap from anyone and standing up to whoever gets in her way.
I definitely recommend this book if you're looking for a fun, loose historical romance with plenty of MMF spice!
I really enjoyed Halle Oak’s debut, The Bear and the Lamb, so I was excited to dive into The Widow and the Wanted. This book is even better than the first! As someone who loves Red Dead Redemption, the gays, and a couple of darn tootin' spicy group sex scenes, this book hit the nail on the head for me.
I love the "fated in the stars" lore and the obvious historical research Halle puts into her writing. Every character feels so real and emotionally driven. Boone and Okee have such a sweet, intimate love story with a bond that feels written in the stars from long ago. Then there's Lula, who is an absolute firecracker. She was giving herbalist Bonnie MacFarlane vibes, taking no crap from anyone and standing up to whoever gets in her way.
I definitely recommend this book if you're looking for a fun, loose historical romance with plenty of MMF spice!
August 24, 2026
As soon as I read the dedication I knew we were on board for another great instalment in the Fated Outlaws series!
Need to rave about the overall story arc and pacing of this book. Halle Oak shined like a star in the night with her story plotting. From the incident that kicks off the meeting of The Aces and Lula, to the cabin and then to town with the Gemini. Things were always moving forward and I consistently wanted to see how the characters would get themselves out of trouble and make their relationship work.
This was my first MMF/“Why Choose?” read and I truly had fun seeing that sort of relationship pan out.
Looking forward to what other characters and stories we may see in the Fated Outlaws universe!
Need to rave about the overall story arc and pacing of this book. Halle Oak shined like a star in the night with her story plotting. From the incident that kicks off the meeting of The Aces and Lula, to the cabin and then to town with the Gemini. Things were always moving forward and I consistently wanted to see how the characters would get themselves out of trouble and make their relationship work.
This was my first MMF/“Why Choose?” read and I truly had fun seeing that sort of relationship pan out.
Looking forward to what other characters and stories we may see in the Fated Outlaws universe!
August 25, 2026
This book!!!! Okee, Boone, and Lula’s love story is too tier!!! Okay and yes this is a very spicy why choose but I think the author balanced the spice with the plot perfectly because you can take away the spice and the story holds its own- the thing is, it’s such a deep and loving MMF romance, that I think the spice really makes this story even more beautiful! (and hot lol 🔥🫠)
I will always love the theme in this series that they’re fated in the stars ✨ The characters are fully flushed out and I loved learning their backstories- i think it was really important for a book like this to establish their histories.
If you have not dipped your toe into a Dark Historical Western Romance yet, you are missing out!!!
I will always love the theme in this series that they’re fated in the stars ✨ The characters are fully flushed out and I loved learning their backstories- i think it was really important for a book like this to establish their histories.
If you have not dipped your toe into a Dark Historical Western Romance yet, you are missing out!!!
August 27, 2026
“That’s one of the blessings of three. A man can fall apart and trust somebody else to keep loving where he left off.”
I loved The Bear and the Lamb so I had equally high expectations for The Widow and the Wanted and it did not disappoint! Halle has a knack for taking western romance and adding a star-packed twist while still keeping things historically accurate and she does it in a way that’s truly beautiful.
I adored Okee, Boone and Lula through the entire story. I genuinely had no idea how things were going to wrap up in the final chapters but these characters had me giggling and kicking my feet. I just want to put sweet Boone in my pocket and carry him around forever!
Forever and always grateful to Luna Literary Management for the arc!
I loved The Bear and the Lamb so I had equally high expectations for The Widow and the Wanted and it did not disappoint! Halle has a knack for taking western romance and adding a star-packed twist while still keeping things historically accurate and she does it in a way that’s truly beautiful.
I adored Okee, Boone and Lula through the entire story. I genuinely had no idea how things were going to wrap up in the final chapters but these characters had me giggling and kicking my feet. I just want to put sweet Boone in my pocket and carry him around forever!
Forever and always grateful to Luna Literary Management for the arc!
August 27, 2026
It starts off as Okee and Boone capturing a wanted man and bring him to the Authority so they can collect the reward. From the beginning you can tell the Boone is very aware of Okee and protective of him.
After being stuck in a cabin for so long a lot of tension (sexual) is happening and frustration from Boom and Okee since they can't do much cuz of Lulu. But she suspect that something is happening and she's starting to have tension as well 🤭
I couldn't get enough of the love between Boom and Okee. That love was endless and beautiful
In a way I kind of disliked Lulu cuz I felt that she came between them but I understood that they needed her each in there own way.
The ending was perfect 👌 I'm glad that the 3 of them where able to be together and live at a place where they weren't afraid to be a family of 3.
I was so excited to be selected for this ARC and this book lived up to my expectations. Thank you so much Halle Oak and Love Notes PR.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
After being stuck in a cabin for so long a lot of tension (sexual) is happening and frustration from Boom and Okee since they can't do much cuz of Lulu. But she suspect that something is happening and she's starting to have tension as well 🤭
I couldn't get enough of the love between Boom and Okee. That love was endless and beautiful
In a way I kind of disliked Lulu cuz I felt that she came between them but I understood that they needed her each in there own way.
The ending was perfect 👌 I'm glad that the 3 of them where able to be together and live at a place where they weren't afraid to be a family of 3.
I was so excited to be selected for this ARC and this book lived up to my expectations. Thank you so much Halle Oak and Love Notes PR.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
September 1, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I love a cowboy romance so was super intrigued by the historical setting, especially combined with a MMF romance!
This book features some heavy topics but the banter and humour between the main characters was so fun and kept the pace moving forward in between the dark moments.
Lula, Okee and Boone all have interesting, fully fleshed out personalities. I especially enjoyed Lula’s resilience and fiery attitude.
As you can imagine with a MMF relationship the spice was SPICY along with being very well written as you could feel the connection between them.
The Window and The Wanted approached their complex relationship and trauma in such a realistic, engaging way. I really enjoyed this book and will be looking into the others in the series!
Thank you to Halle Oaks and Love Notes PR for the ARC 🫶🏻
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I love a cowboy romance so was super intrigued by the historical setting, especially combined with a MMF romance!
This book features some heavy topics but the banter and humour between the main characters was so fun and kept the pace moving forward in between the dark moments.
Lula, Okee and Boone all have interesting, fully fleshed out personalities. I especially enjoyed Lula’s resilience and fiery attitude.
As you can imagine with a MMF relationship the spice was SPICY along with being very well written as you could feel the connection between them.
The Window and The Wanted approached their complex relationship and trauma in such a realistic, engaging way. I really enjoyed this book and will be looking into the others in the series!
Thank you to Halle Oaks and Love Notes PR for the ARC 🫶🏻
August 13, 2026
When I read the description of this book, I immediately wanted to read it. Thanks to @lovenotes.pr I was able to read an ARC and provide you with my free review.
This book is wonderful for anyone looking for a western romance to complete a challenge, or someone who enjoys diving into new genres. This book is perfect for those who want to read about two outlaws keeping their love hidden in plain sight until a wild card is thrown at them. The banter in this book is hilarious and very much right up my alley. These characters feel so deeply, you can’t help but feel with them. The love, the fear, the envy, and the all consuming lust.
Maybe one day Boone will learn to stop writing a check he can’t cash. But until then, Okee and Lula will have to keep him in check.
This book is wonderful for anyone looking for a western romance to complete a challenge, or someone who enjoys diving into new genres. This book is perfect for those who want to read about two outlaws keeping their love hidden in plain sight until a wild card is thrown at them. The banter in this book is hilarious and very much right up my alley. These characters feel so deeply, you can’t help but feel with them. The love, the fear, the envy, and the all consuming lust.
Maybe one day Boone will learn to stop writing a check he can’t cash. But until then, Okee and Lula will have to keep him in check.
August 25, 2026
ARC 🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
“SHE WAS SUPPOSED TO DIE ON THE RIVER. FATE HAD OTHER PLANS.”
Honestly was shocked at how well this book was written! I love reading historical romances that are done well!
The banter and romance between the 3 of them was perfect. I loved how different each character was but they all fit perfectly together!
Halley did a wonderful job, bringing the characters to life as well as having all 3 characters standing up to the normal society guidelines of the time period!
Tropes:
- MMF Romance
- Western Romance
- High Heat
- Forced proximity
- snowed in
- morally grey MMC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
“SHE WAS SUPPOSED TO DIE ON THE RIVER. FATE HAD OTHER PLANS.”
Honestly was shocked at how well this book was written! I love reading historical romances that are done well!
The banter and romance between the 3 of them was perfect. I loved how different each character was but they all fit perfectly together!
Halley did a wonderful job, bringing the characters to life as well as having all 3 characters standing up to the normal society guidelines of the time period!
Tropes:
- MMF Romance
- Western Romance
- High Heat
- Forced proximity
- snowed in
- morally grey MMC
August 26, 2026
I found this book on instagram a couple days before it was actually released and knew right away it was going to be right up my alley. I started it immediately after it released and was reading it every second I could on my work breaks. It pulls you in so quickly and holds you there. I absolutely loved every second of this book. Not only is there a good amount of spice but the plot itself holds you hostage. The characters pull at your heart and you can’t help but love them, except Dr. Collin’s, that man can go find a cactus and sit straight on it. Over all it was perfect and I know the hangover from this book is going to last days.
August 13, 2026
This book is just outstanding!!
Bickering, deep feelings, spice and an engaging plot make this a must-read you can’t put down.
Sizzling tension, shootings and snowstorms: Lula, Boone and Okee’s story is full of action and emotions.
The Widow and The Wanted is the second book in the Fated Outlaws, a dark western historical series.
It can be read as a standalone but I recommend catching up the first one if you haven’t already reading it. It’s worth it!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Bickering, deep feelings, spice and an engaging plot make this a must-read you can’t put down.
Sizzling tension, shootings and snowstorms: Lula, Boone and Okee’s story is full of action and emotions.
The Widow and The Wanted is the second book in the Fated Outlaws, a dark western historical series.
It can be read as a standalone but I recommend catching up the first one if you haven’t already reading it. It’s worth it!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 22, 2026
This historical western was absolutely more than I expected. I anticipated low plot and high spice but I was completely wrong. Lula, Okee and Boone are all such great characters. We got the perfect amount of each character’s history to really make us understand where they came from and what they experienced, and their motivations throughout the book. The story was unpredictable and intriguing, the found family was absolutely beautiful, and the way these three interact together is absolutely swoon worthy. This was such an enjoyable read!
Thank you to Love Notes PR for the ARC.
Thank you to Love Notes PR for the ARC.
September 1, 2026
Holy moly this was a fun one!
Set in the 1800s, you meet Okee and Boone (two men I would love to know in real life!) and you meet Lula. This was a great forced proximity trope book (with other tropes too). You can feel the tension build throughout the story with these 3 characters. It is a VERY spicy book, but the love shared between them is just as amazing as the spice. The adventures they go on and through are also just as entertaining! The whole time I was at the edge of my seat! Such a fun read and I’m still thinking about these characters.
Set in the 1800s, you meet Okee and Boone (two men I would love to know in real life!) and you meet Lula. This was a great forced proximity trope book (with other tropes too). You can feel the tension build throughout the story with these 3 characters. It is a VERY spicy book, but the love shared between them is just as amazing as the spice. The adventures they go on and through are also just as entertaining! The whole time I was at the edge of my seat! Such a fun read and I’m still thinking about these characters.
August 21, 2026
The Widow and the Wanted wrecked me in the best way.
The yearning was TOP TIER. Boone and Okee’s secret history + Lula being the last thing they expected?? I was clawing at the pages. Snowbound cabin, outlaws, and three people falling for each other when they shouldn’t?
And the spice... the spice was SPICY. High heat, emotional, and so tender. The author gave us a guaranteed HEA for all three and I am so grateful.
If you love MMF, found family, and men who would turn their guns on their own men for you, you will live this.
This is what happens when "protect her" meets "protect us" meets "protect them."
Did I mention historical western romance? So good.
The yearning was TOP TIER. Boone and Okee’s secret history + Lula being the last thing they expected?? I was clawing at the pages. Snowbound cabin, outlaws, and three people falling for each other when they shouldn’t?
And the spice... the spice was SPICY. High heat, emotional, and so tender. The author gave us a guaranteed HEA for all three and I am so grateful.
If you love MMF, found family, and men who would turn their guns on their own men for you, you will live this.
This is what happens when "protect her" meets "protect us" meets "protect them."
Did I mention historical western romance? So good.
August 26, 2026
the widow and the wanted was such a fun and addictive read. i loved the tension between the characters and all the messy emotions that came with their relationship. there was so much chemistry and drama that kept me invested, and i definitely found myself wanting to know what was going to happen next. such an entertaining read with characters that made it way too easy to get attached. 🖤
thank you to the author and LoveNotes PR!
thank you to the author and LoveNotes PR!
September 1, 2026
ARC Review -
I don't read that many westerns, but I absolutely love this one. The way the prose flows flawlessly and has great description I can see mentally what is happening. I love the characters and instantly fell in love with Lula, Boone, and Okee. Three different personalities, but somehow they work great together. Halle Oak is a great writer and I would definitely read more of the Fated Outlaws.
I don't read that many westerns, but I absolutely love this one. The way the prose flows flawlessly and has great description I can see mentally what is happening. I love the characters and instantly fell in love with Lula, Boone, and Okee. Three different personalities, but somehow they work great together. Halle Oak is a great writer and I would definitely read more of the Fated Outlaws.
August 29, 2026
Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for the ARC!
I think this might be one of the most original romance books I've ever read and I LOVED it!
The main characters have so much depth, the setting is so well described, and the historical elements are so well done that you feel like you are right there along with them.
I don't normally love Historical Romance, but Halle Oak just changed my mind.
If you want a new take on the "snowed in" plot with so many twists and turns, you never know what's coming next, look no further!
I think this might be one of the most original romance books I've ever read and I LOVED it!
The main characters have so much depth, the setting is so well described, and the historical elements are so well done that you feel like you are right there along with them.
I don't normally love Historical Romance, but Halle Oak just changed my mind.
If you want a new take on the "snowed in" plot with so many twists and turns, you never know what's coming next, look no further!
August 31, 2026
This was a such a great historical western why choose romance. Lula, Boone, and Okee were such great characters. The way they rescued her, protected her. All three of them were so great together. Their connection was awesome. And I loved the setting. I felt taken back in time. The banter, the spice. Everything was so well balanced. This was a really great read.
August 31, 2026
Firstly, thank you to the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this as an ARC.
Wow. Just... Holy cow. I don't know what I was expecting, but this story now has me staring into the yonder. I ate this up (considering I've not read a MMF Romance before this). I have definitely found a new favourite read and author.
Wow. Just... Holy cow. I don't know what I was expecting, but this story now has me staring into the yonder. I ate this up (considering I've not read a MMF Romance before this). I have definitely found a new favourite read and author.
September 14, 2026
I knew the instant I read the dedication that I would absolutely love this book. As a hardcore Red Dead Redemption 2 fan, this plot was compelling and unique to me. I had so much fun reading this. The romance was sweet and the action was plentiful! A perfect read.
Thanks for the ARC!
Thanks for the ARC!
September 17, 2026
Multiple POV, Spicy, MMF, Dark Historical Western, Forced Proximity, Widow x Morally Gray MMCs, Found Family, Grumpy x Sunshine, Touch Them & Perish, Care Taking
The Widow and the Wanted is a dark historical western romance where an established MM morally grey couple add in a widow while the three of them are on the run. Halle Oak not only crafts an immersive setting but a swoony romance full of banter and care taking that will have you reading this novel in one sitting. Boone, Okee, and Lula are a fated trio whose HEA is worth every bit struggle it takes to get there. Expect suspense, sneaking around, tender care taking, family dynamics, and spice that will have you burning up.
The Widow and the Wanted is a dark historical western romance where an established MM morally grey couple add in a widow while the three of them are on the run. Halle Oak not only crafts an immersive setting but a swoony romance full of banter and care taking that will have you reading this novel in one sitting. Boone, Okee, and Lula are a fated trio whose HEA is worth every bit struggle it takes to get there. Expect suspense, sneaking around, tender care taking, family dynamics, and spice that will have you burning up.
September 22, 2026
Halle Oak I <3 you this book was so so good I can’t stop thinking about it
August 12, 2026
I loved every minute of this book! I was hooked from the start! Okee was my favorite character!
I haven’t read a book written during this time period before and was intrigued by the pairing of Okee, Boone, and Lula.
I haven’t read a book written during this time period before and was intrigued by the pairing of Okee, Boone, and Lula.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Halle Oak does it again with another dark, historical western that is clever, engaging, and such a fun read!
This book had me right from the beginning and I found it very hard to put down. These characters are incredibly written, easy to identify with, fascinating, and the suspense keeps the story interesting and engaging. The love story is deep and well-written with the use of period correct language that forces the reader to live the period right along with the characters. I have enjoyed how beautifully written and intrinsically interesting Halle crafts such a unique storyline that always leaves you wanting more.
Boone and Okee are flawed, full of grit, and morally-gray, but with a code and compass that leads them. Their love for each other is pure and perfect and I could not get over how beautifully they loved each other and how perfectly Lula fit with them. The banter and sharp wit between the three is fun, funny, and perfectly charming. I loved them all and their incredible story and this was one of my favorite reads this year.
TROPES:
Dark
Why Choose
Historical Western
Forced Proximity
Morally Gray
Thank you to Halle Oak & Luna Literary Management for the ARC.
This book had me right from the beginning and I found it very hard to put down. These characters are incredibly written, easy to identify with, fascinating, and the suspense keeps the story interesting and engaging. The love story is deep and well-written with the use of period correct language that forces the reader to live the period right along with the characters. I have enjoyed how beautifully written and intrinsically interesting Halle crafts such a unique storyline that always leaves you wanting more.
Boone and Okee are flawed, full of grit, and morally-gray, but with a code and compass that leads them. Their love for each other is pure and perfect and I could not get over how beautifully they loved each other and how perfectly Lula fit with them. The banter and sharp wit between the three is fun, funny, and perfectly charming. I loved them all and their incredible story and this was one of my favorite reads this year.
TROPES:
Dark
Why Choose
Historical Western
Forced Proximity
Morally Gray
Thank you to Halle Oak & Luna Literary Management for the ARC.
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